This week is National Cyber-security Career Awareness Week! Chances are you've never really considered a career in cyber-security since its a relatively new area. While many careers are clearly outlined and expected we're in a time of frequent data breaches, cyber-security is a continuously growing and evolving career field. This means that the amount of open positions and the demand for qualified applicants is incredibly large. So, its a great time to consider stepping into the cyber-security area.
Characteristics
What make you suited for a job in cyber-security? People who normally want to problem solve through thinking critically typically excel in the area. Now while you make think the issues are purely technical, this isn't true. The issues can be in anything from behavioral, legal, logistical, technical, and financial. All of these areas must be considered when analyzing cyber-security because all of them pay an integral part in the overall position. For example, you might think that behavior has nothing to do with cyber-security; however, you must take into account how users and hackers will use your programs with different intentions.
Benefits
One great thing about careers in cyber-security is the fact that they are constantly being added to make up for the growing need. They are also still developing a lot of the positions, which means that were is a level of excitement and unpredictability. It's not your typical office position where you'll have repeats of the same mundane day, there's always something going on somewhere in the world affecting you. Examples of this could be new technologies, changes in policies, or even breaches.
Requirements
Now that that you're interested in the area, its important to know what you'll need to get into this field. The majority of these positions will ask for a bachelors degree with a major in cyber-security, information technology, or computer science. From there, it's recommended to complete some form of advanced training, typically a masters program or security clearances. However, some employers may only need a certificate to consider you for the position. To make sure you're on the right track look up potential companies you might be interested in and see what they require.
This week is National Cyber-security Career Awareness Week! Chances are you've never really considered a career in cyber-security since its a relatively new area. While many careers are clearly outlined and expected we're in a time of frequent data breaches, cyber-security is a continuously growing and evolving career field. This means that the amount of open positions and the demand for qualified applicants is incredibly large. So, its a great time to consider stepping into the cyber-security area.
